Otoplasty – Ear surgery

The objective of otoplasty is to improve the shape, position and projection of the external ear and is carried out for various reasons:

·Helix valgus (prominent ears).

·Congenital defect, e.g.: constricted ears, microtia (under-developed ears).

·Deformations from external factors, e.g.: burns, traumas, surgery.

Indications:

There are various techniques used to perform otoplasty and indications vary according to the deformity present. In general, the surgery consists in sculpting or modeling the auricular cartilage. With some deformities it is necessary to use cartilage grafts taken from the healthy  ear or from the ribs.

Following the procedure, a dressing is placed over the ears allowing them to heal in the correct position. After one week the dressing is taken off and is replaced by an elastic band for two weeks, to avoid harmful positioning of the ears while sleeping.

Complications:

Any surgical procedure entails a certain degree of risk and it is important that the patient understands the risks associated with otoplasty. Although the majority of patients don’t experience complications, any questions that the patient may have must be clarified by the plastic surgeon before the procedure is carried out, ensuring that the patient understands the risks, potential complications and consequences of undergoing this procedure.

Results:

Otoplasty is an effective procedure with very visible results. The procedure changes the shape and size of the ears to compliment the facial proportions of the patient and consequently create harmony.